Houston zoo
- Thread starter Chasen
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It's sad. I wish there was a way to get the word out into the world about tortoise care.... a pro-active way rather than waiting for people to come to the forum. Does anyone have any ideas?
Maybe we could come up with a letter or email that we could send to places where we see poor care (zoos, pet stores, breeders...) that would be so convincing that they would listen to us. We need a member with writing skills, diplomacy, salesmanship... someone with a real gift for communication. If we could come up with such a thing I know I'd be happy to send it out every time someone reported seeing a tortoise being mis-treated. Any members out there who feel they could convince people to re- think their ways?
Maybe we could come up with a letter or email that we could send to places where we see poor care (zoos, pet stores, breeders...) that would be so convincing that they would listen to us. We need a member with writing skills, diplomacy, salesmanship... someone with a real gift for communication. If we could come up with such a thing I know I'd be happy to send it out every time someone reported seeing a tortoise being mis-treated. Any members out there who feel they could convince people to re- think their ways?
Pastel Tortie
Well-Known Member
In the case of zoos, I think it would almost need to come from another zookeeper using a careful (not "you're doing it all wrong") approach. Or it needs to come from someone who's a well known expert in the field. Being able to cite scientific studies and published data would help.
I'd ask @Will for his thoughts and perhaps some studies to send to zookeepers. I'd also ask one of our newer members from Jupiter, Florida, @MKNOX who has a background as a zookeeper of large tortoises.
I love the setups at the Cincinnati Zoo. They try their best to emulate a natural ecosystem for all their animals.
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With zoos it comes down to the keeper for the particular enclosure, then an area foreman/supervisor, then the curator. I saw radiated being fed trout chow at a Midwest zoo. A friend went there from another zoo, ans even though it was not his section, the diet was improved.
Several of the images did not load. Of the first two I see no problem as I don't even see the tortoise in the first one, and the second one just shows a I. star laying relaxed on mulch. What is the problem with these enclosures?
I think most everyone who keeps tortoises in particular and reptiles in general could get benefit from reading this forum
Several of the images did not load. Of the first two I see no problem as I don't even see the tortoise in the first one, and the second one just shows a I. star laying relaxed on mulch. What is the problem with these enclosures?
I think most everyone who keeps tortoises in particular and reptiles in general could get benefit from reading this forum
I agree 100%...which is why I enjoy going to the Cincy zoo. Nothing like the zoos we grew up with back in the days of old. They spare no expense hiring the best vets, herpetologists, etc. The layout is amazing. At times it makes you wonder if there's anything between you and the animals. Some of the tortoise "pens" are interactive. It's fun watching small kids enjoying the Galapagos torts.
The enclosures are 2.5 ft squares. So, that's ok? One of the top replies on here is enclosures aren't big enough. They also appear to be pretty dry. The first enclosure has 2 Greeks, both under the rock to the right. I can't get the video I took to load on here, but the one you can see was pushing and pushing on the other (I assume to get it to move out). You're okay with that hatchling setup?
Pastel Tortie
Well-Known Member
@MKNOX I don't know if you're getting notifications on this thread, but I'd be interested in your thoughts on how best to approach zoos and the like with some "animal care housing improvement suggestions"... 
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Thanks for fleshing it out. I agree, space can always be bigger, never an argument on that, so then it turns to how little is acceptable, and that is a can-o-worms conversation. If there are two Testudo in that one enclosure then that is not good, the 'pairs' thing is troubling. The star is well established, so the drier enclosure is okay, it does look like it is slightly moist. I keep neonates in very high humiditu, but as they grow, I pull back on some of that humidity.
As for how to offer care about animals to zoo keepers, ask them to be speakers at local herp clubs, then it comes out in the conversation.
As for how to offer care about animals to zoo keepers, ask them to be speakers at local herp clubs, then it comes out in the conversation.
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The other images loaded today, so yes I agree a larger enclosure for group housed I. stars would be better, and that neonate does seem to be a bit dry.
Pastel Tortie
Well-Known Member
Brilliant!
MKNOX
Member
I really like the suggestion about having them speak at club meetings. Another way is to try to get to know the keepers well enough to have discussions with them, although this will take time. Ask the keepers to attend your local club meetings as guests and encouraging them to join might also work. All the herp keepers I have ever known or worked with were personal hobbiests as well.@MKNOX I don't know if you're getting notifications on this thread, but I'd be interested in your thoughts on how best to approach zoos and the like with some "animal care housing improvement suggestions"...
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Pastel Tortie
Well-Known Member
Pastel Tortie
Well-Known Member
I agree completely. Those personal relationships are invaluable, and in some cases may be the only approach that works. When you have an established relationship, it is easier to share information, observations, and data.
"Wow, look at how smooth the carapace looks on that tortoise... How do you think they managed that?"
